Sit back, relax and enjoy the full flight from Vancouver BC to Victoria BC in a Harbour Air, De Havilland Otter with Captain Nick. I had the privilege of sitting in the right seat with Nick, an amazingly skilled and talented pilot for Harbour Air. Trust me when I say that this is one of my all-time favourite videos. Join me as we go through the safety briefing, start up the engine, taxi to position, and take to the skies above the stunning port of Vancouver and land at my home of Victoria, BC, Canada. I wasn't much of a co-pilot, I simply sat back, didn't touch anything and enjoyed every moment of being a passenger on this magnificent aircraft. I filmed this entire video freehand with my iphone 13pro max.
Before we begin, it's important to acknowledge that this aerial adventure was filmed within the shared, unceded, ancestral territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations and on on the unceded territory of the Lekwungen people of the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations. We extend our deepest gratitude to these Indigenous communities for their stewardship of the land.
Once airborne, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Vancouver's harbour and skyline. We'll soar over the majestic Lions Gate Bridge, catch glimpses of colossal cargo ships, and witness BC ferries shuttling passengers to and from Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay. The natural beauty of the Gulf Islands will leave you in awe. It's a peculiar feeling to notice the date of May 18th on the compass correction card-it holds a special meaning for me, as it marks the birthdays of my late sister Marnie and former father-in-law Don.
In the distance, you'll spot the Tsawwassen ferry terminal and Robert's Bank super-port. Robert's bank also serves as a vital wetland habitat area. Hopefully, the smoke we see in the distance isn't from a forest fire-I certainly hope not. It's easy to understand why this area is renowned as one of the world's most amazing boating destinations. I can vouch for it firsthand; it truly is remarkable. Although I only know a few of the names, I'm determined to learn more about the islands that surround me and to improve on my lack commentary skills.
Prepare for some exhilarating aerial shots as we fly directly over the Pat Bay airport, offering an unobstructed view. The fertile farmlands of the Saanich Peninsula will come into sight, and in just a matter of minutes, we'll find ourselves in the heart of downtown Victoria. Seeing the beauty of the Saanich Peninsula from above is an awe-inspiring sight that you won't want to miss.
As we ascend towards Victoria, you'll be treated to the breathtaking spectacle of flying over Point Hope Shipyard and the Johnson St Bridge before gracefully landing at Victoria Harbour. It's an experience that will leave you in complete awe. I want to give a huge shout-out to Nick, the pilot who expertly guided this magnificent aircraft to its final destination in Victoria. The scenery at Victoria is truly breathtaking with it's modern day vibe and old world charm.
If you're a new passenger on my channel, welcome aboard! And to all my returning passengers, thank you so much for your continued support-it means the world to me. If you enjoyed this video, please show your appreciation by giving it a thumbs up, leaving a positive comment, and considering subscribing if you haven't already. Stay tuned because I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting content to share. I want to clarify that I have no affiliation with Harbour Air; they're simply one of my all-time favourite local companies.
Thank you to my new friend Chuck Henry for assisting with my proper land acknowledgement. Chuck resides on the Esquimalt and Songhees first nations land on the unseeded territory of the Lekwungen Territory.
Thank you to my ex-husband Stu, a commercial pilot, for helping me with my growing knowledge about various aircraft and general aviation terms.